Vaca FISH is moving

Since its humble beginnings in 1971, Vaca FISH, a nonprofit food pantry, has helped keep thousands of local families from going hungry.

The goal is to help thousands more, officials said, though it'll be from different digs. On Sept. 1, Vaca FISH will be operating from its new location at 40 Eldridge Ave., Suite 9.

It's bigger than the portable parked outside Three Oaks Community Center, so it'll hold more goods. It's newer, so will likely be around a lot longer.

The building is also in a central location, so FISH staffers hope they'll be easier to find.

"We are so happy," said Jennifer Carpenter, FISH president. "It's just a humble pantry but we get the job done."

The organization is completely dependent on the community's goodwill, Carpenter emphasized, which is why it has been so successful. The giving spirit, she continued, is huge in Vacaville.

About 10 families per day are helped by the pantry, and about 1,200 families per year. They receive everything from dry goods to canned goods, bread, any available produce and even poultry.

"We're blessed we can still give out chickens. For larger families, we give out two," Carpenter said. "I think we're the only food pantry that gives out chickens."

The program works like this — if you're in need, drop by the office, currently on Alamo Drive in the Three Oaks complex across the skate park. Fill out a form and, if you meet income requirements, you're in. Once a month you drop in, sign in, show your ID and pick up your food. You get enough to feed your family for three days, or a total of nine meals.

Supplemented by goods from other pantries (though not on the same day as your Vaca FISH pickup), your family should be okay food-wise.

Families can also receive Thanksgiving and Christmas food baskets, which are distributed on the Saturday preceding these holidays. Up to 250 families are served each holiday.

Carpenter said the group is all about keeping families afloat, as many FISH volunteers have experienced some type of hardship firsthand. They welcome your help in giving back.

Food donations, especially of chickens, are always welcomed.

Contributions of time are also embraced, as the food must be sorted and bagged and help with other duties are needed.

If you have a truck, you're sorely needed as Vaca FISH transitions to its new location. They pick up the keys to their new office on Aug. 18 and will go from there. Call ASAP if you can help.

Shelving and a new freezer would also be happily accepted to replace aging and broken models.